Metal Blacking – A Cost Effective Way to Enhance the Appearance of Antiques

Metal blacking is a traditional art that began a few hundred years ago when gun makers tried to find a way to prevent oxidisation of their metal surfaces. The early methods were indeed complex, and due to the high temperatures that the process required, blacking was only possible at a special factory. This made the process time consuming and very expensive, but at that time, there was little alternative, yet today, there is a British company that have pioneered the blacking process by inventing a room temperature metal blacking process that is very easy to carry out, so easy that they offer the service in kit form.

Metal Blacking for Antiques

In the trade, it is known as antiquing, and the process can be used with copper, pewter, brass and iron, making it the ideal way to both enhance and protect valuable antiques. There are metal blacking kits that can be purchased online, and by following the instructions, you can carry out the metal blacking process at home. The kit includes the immersion bath and a specific quantity of various solutions, into which the metal surfaces must be immersed, and providing temperatures and immersion times are accurate, the process will leave your antique items with a distinguished look.

Effective Protection

Antique surfaces, like any other metal surfaces, are prone to corrosion and with a blacking immersion, the surface undergoes a chemical reaction, and with a special dip, the surface is also protected from corrosion. This is the ideal way to protect your investment, as the piece will be protected from rust and other forms of corrosion.

Kit Form

Everything you need to carry out the blacking process is included in the special kit, and with many different solutions, for different metals and effects, you can select something that will enhance the appearance of that special antique, as well as providing optimum protection. If you would like to learn more about this cost effective treatment, an online search would lead you to the website of the UK’s leading blacking company, Blackfast, who have pioneered the room temperature system.

Talk to the Experts

Of course, it isn’t wise to carry out this treatment on an expensive antique without first talking to the experts, and the supplier would even arrange some demonstrations for you, so you can be absolutely sure that your investment will not be ruined. Many antique dealers have a room where they keep their metal blacking equipment, and as you can reuse the solutions, it is very cost effective and the kits are good value for money.

You might be surprised at just how many antique pieces have actually been treated this way, and with two major benefits, the process protects and enhances any antique metal item. Now, the process can be carried out by anyone, and with easy to follow instructions and a comprehensive kit, your antiques will soon be enhanced and protected against corrosion.

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For 3 years Catherine has been sharing tips, tutorials and guides on things to make with her fair hands right here on yourstrulyhandmade.com. Please look through the archives or learn more by reading her story here.